Konkola Copper Mines is set to transform historical waste into a significant copper production source in Zambia.
The company has secured shareholder approval for a US8 million tailings-reprocessing project at its Nchanga operations. This initiative aims to produce approximately 70,000 tonnes of copper cathode annually from 546 million tonnes of historical tailings grading 0.54% copper.
KCM Advances Copper Production with Tailings Project
The Nchanga Tailings Leach Plant will utilize leaching, solvent extraction, and electrowinning technology to recover copper from previously mined material. The facility is designed to process around 17.7 million tonnes of tailings each year. Technical studies suggest a potential copper recovery rate of approximately 74%, which is crucial for achieving the production target.
Construction and commissioning are expected to take about 24 months, contingent on the execution of the engineering, procurement, and construction contract with China NERIN. This project marks a strategic shift for KCM, focusing on reprocessing rather than developing new mining sites.
Zambia: Key figures on copper production
- US8 million investment for the project
- Approximately 70,000 tonnes of copper cathode per year
- 546 million tonnes of historical tailings
- 0.54% copper grade in tailings
- 17.7 million tonnes of material processed annually
- 74% estimated copper recovery rate
Funding and Project Execution Plans
KCM plans to finance its equity contribution internally, eliminating the need for additional capital from ZCCM Investments Holdings. The approval allows KCM to move forward with the project, but further arrangements for financing and construction are still necessary. The focus now shifts to executing the EPC contract and ensuring the project meets its ambitious timelines.
Next Steps for the Nchanga Project
- Execute the EPC contract with China NERIN
- Arrange necessary financing for the project
- Progress construction of the Nchanga Tailings Leach Plant
This project represents a significant opportunity for Zambia to enhance its copper production sustainably.
